Binocular Messier Program - Appendix A

Binocular Messier Program Chair

Appendix A

If you are uncertain as to which Messier objects to observe, or who need a formal program to follow, we have included Appendix A and Appendix B for your use. Appendix A lists the appropriate Messier objects that can be observed with that size binoculars between 20MM and 50MM in diameter, and is divided into three categories: Easy, Tough, and Challenge objects. Easy objects are those that appear large and bright in the field of view, and are easily located. Tougher objects are small and dim in the field of view and require identifying the fields around them with the help of some sort of star chart to verify their location. Challenge objects are those that are small and faint, sometimes requiring averted vision, and need to be pinpointed exactly on a good star atlas to identify.

You will notice that in the small binocular category, 42 objects are classified as easy. You need only choose 8 of the objects in the tougher category to receive your certificate. The point is that anyone, with any pair of binoculars, no matter what their size, shape, condition, or cost, can do serious astronomy, and acquire a Binocular Messier Program certificate. To prove that point, all 76 objects (Easy, Tough, and Challenge) were observed with a pair of 7x35 Tasco binoculars purchased at Wal-Mart for $19.00.